Al Weiss, who served as Hill's crew chief for a period of time after Fuzzy Carter's departure, told me the blocks themselves were structurally defective. Neither of them stood a chance of lasting long enough to complete a pass.

Were cast aluminum blocks phased out shortly after Eddie's explosions?

Were cast aluminum blocks phased out shortly after Eddie's explosions?

I believe that's correct, Luther.

Hill was pushing the envelope, too, on those boomer runs. His Pennzoil deal was fading; he knew retirement was imminent and he was determined to add "4.40 Father" to his "4-Father" title. He wouldn't have been the first - Dixon was - but he wanted the record, wanted it bad. But it wasn't to be. 2 destroyed cars later, Hill knew his driving career was over.